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There are several trolling motors on the market that you are literally spoiled for choice. On the other hand, making the wrong decision can make or break your fishing trip. Your nets will be empty if your motor runs too loudly. A motor that does not produce enough thrust will leave you stranded. If you use the wrong shaft length, you will not catch a lot of fish.
Different vessels necessitate different motors with varying mounts and properties. No guide can instantaneously select the most suitable trolling motor for your needs, but we hope to point you in the right direction so you can find the best trolling motor for your boat. Here are our top picks.
Contents
Trolling Motor Reviews 2022
1. Newport Vessels NV-Series – Editor’s Choice
The NV 55lb trolling motor from Newport Vessels is the most versatile trolling motor for small and medium-sized watercraft, providing the ideal balance of power and efficiency. The three-blade propeller operates almost silently, ensuring that you never startle fish.
This motor keeps you on the water all day long, with 55lbs of thrust and a bright 5-point LED battery meter. With a strong nylon transom mount and a 30-inch adjustable shaft, this motor is suitable for almost all small to medium-sized watercraft. Top-quality and corrosion-resistant equipment ensure that this trolling motor is ready for any condition, with complete freshwater and saltwater compatibility.
This motor is the best choice in its class due to its ease of operation, craftsmanship, and quality. This motor is intended to be used with a single 12-Volt deep-cycle battery. The Newport Vessels NV Series electric trolling motor is a multi-functional trolling motor made with top materials and cutting-edge designs. The NV series trolling motor is designed to last you a long time. 8-speed control provides a highly adjustable ride and smooth ride. Newport NV series 55lb thrust trolling motor comes with a ten-inch diameter three-blade propeller for optimum performance.
This motor is designed to run on a 12-volt battery or a marine battery (which isn’t included). Lithium-ion batteries are not recommended for use. To guarantee a long lifecycle, This trolling motor is built with high-quality materials such as stainless steel, a fiberglass composite shaft, a zinc anode, and a fiberglass propeller to withstand anything. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- 55lbs of thrust
- 5-point LED
- 30-inch adjustable shaft
- 3-blade propeller
- Built-in battery meters
- Saltwater Compatibility
- 8-Speed control system for more accurate control
- Stainless steel build for a longer lifespan
- Telescoping handle for easier handling
- Head of trolling motor isn’t waterproof
2. Newport Vessels L-Series – Most Powerful Trolling Motor
The L Series trolling motors have an adjustable 40-inch fiberglass shaft and are designed to fit Newport Vessels inflatable boats and almost all other transom mount vessels, inflatable boats, sailboats, and most personal watercraft.
The 8 speeds of the motor (5 forward and 3 reverse) provide absolute control for a comfortable ride in any condition. The 62lb thrust trolling motor is equipped with a three-blade propeller with a 10-inch diameter for maximum performance and can be powered by any 12-volt Deep Cycle or Marine battery. 12V lithium batteries with output voltages less than 14V are safe to use; however, check the battery manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
The NV L-Series is a small sailboat-specific electric trolling motor. So, if you’re in need of a powerful motor, I recommend looking into this trolling motor. Although this electric trolling motor has 10 LED battery indicators with a telescoping handle, it does not have a tilting head which means it is not as convenient as the other products. Keep in mind that they always use short four-foot battery cables for the motors, therefore take into account that you need longer cables to connect to the motor’s batteries. The Newport Vessels L-Series is made to be powered by a lead-acid battery. But since lead-acid batteries are much less efficient and heavier than lithium batteries, this is actually a disadvantage. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- 62lb of thrust
- 40-inch fiberglass shaft
- 3-blade propeller
- 8 speeds
- 3 blade propeller for easy navigation through murky waters
- 8 speeds (5 forward speeds and 3 reverse) for better control
- 62lb thrust for more power
- Adjustable 40-inch fiberglass shaft for better depth perception
- The Head of the motor is not waterproof
- Use of lead-acid batteries which are less efficient and heavier than lithium batteries
3. PEXMOR Electric Trolling Motor – Most Budget-Friendly
To ensure a long lifespan, the PEXMOR electric trolling motor is constructed with the best quality saltwater corrosion-resistant materials. Fitted with a reinforced Nylon Bracket, durable aluminum head, and a fiberglass composite shaft, this equipment can ensure driving stability and resistance to corrosion.
Ideal for Inflatable Boats, Kayaks, Pontoon Fishing Boats, Jon Boats, and Wooden Boats. It’s a good idea to take it and your boat fishing or surfing with friends or family.
The shaft of this motor is quite solid and can be adjusted using a button. The depth perception of the motor and shaft can be adjusted based on your needs and the condition of the body of water. The shaft is made of fiberglass, which not only makes it strong but also gives it a stylish appearance.
This trolling motor’s battery capacity is adequate, allowing it to power the motor for an entire day of fishing. This also includes a 10 LED light indicator that is both bright and of high quality. Another feature I liked was that the light turns red when the battery is low and green when the battery is full, which is not found in other trolling motors. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- 10 LED light indicator
- Fiberglass shaft
- Saltwater corrosion-resistant materials
- 3 blade propeller
- Variable handle for better handling
- Adjustable depth and angle
- LED battery indicator
- The motor can function well in fresh as well as saltwater
- Very sensitive throttle
4. Watersnake Trolling Motor – Most Features
This trolling motor offers saltwater anglers a versatile range of innovative features. The propeller on the 34lb motors is two-bladed. Each of the 54lb motors drives a three-blade propeller. All propeller shafts are made of stainless steel, and the props are weedless, allowing you to push the limits on your next voyage. All of the motors are powered by 12V and have 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds that are operated by the tiller handle throttle.
The new Venom motor head design is compact with a thick grip for the tiller handle. This new design also features a digital voltage meter display, allowing you to monitor the health of your battery. The grips on the alloy transom mount have been improved as well, making it much easier to fasten and secure the motor before using the fast multi-tilt positioning bracket.
The Watersnake Trolling Motor has an adjustable handle and a decent grip, providing comfort and ideal usage while modifying speed and direction. Certain motors have slightly different handle controls. As a result, getting your hands on it will take some time. Furthermore, when the charge is low and the water is turbulent, the speed adjustments become slightly more difficult, but otherwise, the machine runs very smoothly.
Because these motors provide enough power control, you can choose when to slowly troll and when to speed up. This gives you a tremendous amount of maneuverability. The best part is that these trolling motors are very quiet, allowing you to sneak up on the fish. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- 34lb/54lb thrust
- 8 speeds
- Digital voltage meter display
- 3 blade propellers
- Sturdy, simple design
- Versatile bow mount
- Three-blade weedless propeller design for more convenient navigation
- Improved alloy transom grip for better handling
- Very quiet motor
- Head of the motor is not waterproof
- Motor occasionally vibrates a bit excessively
5. Haswing Black Cayman – Most Portable
The Haswing Cayman Trolling Motor is created to be quieter than ever. This trolling motor is so quiet that the fish won’t notice you coming. The variable speed allows you to dial in your preferred speed and provides smoother and more precise adjustments and better control. Furthermore, because variable speed reduces the power consumption of the motor, it can significantly increase battery life at any speed.
The wireless remote control is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and can also be worn around your neck. The wireless remote can be charged with a power bank when needed. A quick-release bracket can make it easier to install and remove the motor. The cruise control maintains the boat’s speed by using a wireless remote control to control the speed, allowing you to focus on fishing. However, you may need to correct the direction occasionally due to current and wind, and you can adjust the speed when necessary.
The Haswing Cayman 55lb bow mount motor can be used in both salt and fresh water, and it is crafted to be corrosion resistant, with a sacrificial anode protecting important metal components. The 48-inch aluminum shaft makes it suitable for various types of boats.
With the ergonomic lifting handle, you can easily remove the motor from the boat at any time. And the stow and deploy pedal can be lowered with a single foot or hand, allowing you to quickly transition from inside the water to on the boat, allowing you to save strength to reel in the big catches. The straightforward depth collar allows you to change depths easily, securely, and quickly. When you’re at the right depth, lock in tight to hold the motor exactly where you want. Click here to see the best price.
Key Features
- 55lb of thrust
- 48-inch aluminum shaft
- Wireless remote
- Variable speed
- Lightweight and portable
- Hand-steer with 5-Speed Setting for more control
- Wireless remote-control
- Quiet motor for more effective fishing
- Not suitable if you need a lot of power
Things To Consider Before Buying a Trolling Motor
Unfortunately, you can’t just go out and buy the first trolling motor that comes up for sale. They are designed for various purposes and for various vessel types, so you should do some research before making a purchase. Here are the most important considerations you should make before purchasing the best trolling motor for your needs.
Power/Thrust
Trolling motors are rated in pounds of thrust. As a general rule, 72 to 75lb of thrust equals one horsepower or 746W of electrical power. A typical 12V motor drawing 60A consumes around 720W of power. Trolling motors are available in 12V, 12/24V, 24V, and 36V configurations, with the most powerful offering of more than 100lb. Of thrust, which is sufficient to move heavy vessels like pontoon boats.
Conditions (Fresh Water/Salt Water)
Freshwater trolling motors are commonly less expensive than their saltwater counterparts. This is due to the fact that freshwater is not particularly harsh on components. Freshwater motors are usually equipped with special propellers that can cut through seaweeds, a feature that several saltwater models do not have. It is not recommended to use a freshwater trolling motor in the ocean.
Saltwater motors are constructed to withstand the damaging effects of saltwater. Because of the high salt content in seawater, rust and corrosion can form and damage your motor, especially around the shaft. Saltwater trolling motors are usually more powerful as well because they must deal with the boisterous ocean rather than calmer waters. If necessary, saltwater trolling motors can also be used in freshwater.
Mounting
Now that you’ve determined where you’ll be using your boat, you’ll need to determine where you’ll mount the motor on. Some motors are designed for specific mounting positions, providing better performance in one position than in another. The various mounting options are listed below.
The Bow
A popular mounting location is at the bow of the boat. These motors are typically attached with a bolt-on bracket and have propellers that propel your boat through the water. Bow-mounted motors, according to some, provide more control.
The Transom
This is the back section of your boat. Transom-mounted trolling motors are attached with a clamp-on bracket and frequently have hand-operated tiller controls. This position provides simple positions and steering in an efficient and straightforward package.
The Engine
These motors are not mounted on engines but rather on the cavitation plate that would normally be used to mount an inboard or outboard motor. The advantage of this position is that it keeps your deck free and eliminates the need for the trolling motor to be stowed or deployed.
Steering Type
After you’ve determined what type of power and mount you need, many boaters enjoy taking their time to consider the various operation types available. Do you want a hands-free pedal? A traditional hand tiller? Or perhaps something more modern, with wireless remote control?
Hands-Free Pedal
The majority of cable-operated devices are controlled by a foot pedal. These pedals operate the cables that send commands to the motor. They typically have heel or toe control for forwarding power, as well as left and right steering functionality. For those who prefer a hands-free experience, foot pedal cable steering devices are the most ideal.
Hand Tiller
The most conventional method of controlling a trolling motor is with a hand-operated tiller. The majority of tiller controls have a telescopic handle for simple, accurate steering and superb maneuvering. They do, however, require your hands, which can be inconvenient if you prefer keeping your hands on your fishing rod.
Remote Control
Electronically controlled steering is available at the higher end of the price spectrum. The most basic of these electronically controlled steering options have wireless remote-control steering, which is usually operated via a handheld device or touchscreen. Other advanced options use GPS technology and other compatible devices to use autopilot systems that employ the use of satellite technology to keep you in position over your favorite fishing spots. However, these options are typically more expensive.
Features (GPS/Autopilot/Fish Finder, etc.)
Several trolling motors now include route storage and autopilot features to help you navigate your most resourceful routes. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can control these features from your smartphone or the remote control that comes with the device.
Trolling motors, like electronic steering, can be extremely technologically advanced. Here are a few advanced features on offer for those who truly want the cream of the crop.
GPS
Marine GPS devices are essential for serious boaters. They aren’t necessary for the leisurely kayaker’s trip upriver, but possessing some kind of GPS feature is a good idea if you’re heading out into the ocean or deeper waters. GPS devices can help you easily locate your preferred fishing spots and point you in the right direction if you become disoriented. Some can even call for help in case of emergencies.
Autopilot
If you’re going on a long trip, cruise control and autopilot are very useful. Not having to focus all your attention on controlling the power and steering frees you up to do some other things like organize your gear, monitor the weather, or simply relax while on the water. Many devices also include Spot-Lock features that keep the boat locked in place and use the motor to reorient the vessel if somehow the current tries to pull the vessel away.
Fish Finder Sonar
Fishfinders are similar to GPS systems, but fish finders also include underwater sonar. These devices, which use transducer attachments, can transmit sonar pulses through the water, which can detect underwater topography and fish, offering you a clear indication of what’s beneath your hull. Fishfinders are essential tools for anglers.
Connectivity & Compatibility
Some manufacturers provide full compatibility with the majority of their product lines. For example, it would be possible to link a trolling motor to a fish finder. Some motors can communicate with GPS devices, while others can communicate with phone apps. If you’re into technology and connectivity, these features are worth keeping an eye out for.
Portability
If you have numerous boats or prefer to use a kayak for one lake, a canoe in another, and a pontoon boat for coastal fishing, you might be better off purchasing a single trolling motor that can be used for all three. Look for compact motors that are easily transportable. This could end up saving you lots of money in the long run!
FAQs
What is the most powerful trolling motor?
Minn Kota has pioneered the market's most powerful trolling motor, with 112 pounds of thrust. When battling current and wind, powering through thick vegetation, moving between fishing spots, and making abrupt adjustments. The high thrust models deliver extra power.
Will a higher thrust trolling motor go faster?
Thrust is merely a static measurement of pulling or pushing power, and more thrust does not always imply more speed. Speed is determined by the prop pitch and RPM of the motor.
How fast will a 55 lb thrust trolling motor go?
Assuming optimal water conditions, the correct motor size for your boat, and moderate load, a 55 lb. trolling motor can reach speeds of up to 5 miles per hour. However, at top speed, the motor's battery will quickly be depleted, resulting in a brief outing. 55 lb. thrust trolling motors are typically not ideal for large boats, strong ocean tides, or swift currents due to their nature and design. They are ideal for those who want to engage in recreational activities while fishing on a lake or a slow-moving river. Essentially, it is up to you to make appropriate arrangements while operating your motor. If you plan to spend lots of time on the water, make sure your setup is in good working order or have it properly serviced and ensure that your batteries are fully charged.
How much horsepower is 55 lbs of thrust?
A 55lb Thrust Trolling Motor is rated at 624 watts at its maximum forward speed, which is approximately equivalent to 0.84 horsepower.
Conclusion
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all trolling motor that will satisfy everyone. What works flawlessly for one fisherman in one type of boat could feel completely wrong for another fisherman. But if you follow our tips, do more research and go through other reviews, you’ll be able to find the best trolling motor for your needs.
